We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.
If we were to go around the room and ask people who their celebrity style icon is, we'd likely hear a lot of the same names: Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Aniston, Gabrielle Union. But wait a minute — what about Dakota Johnson? The actress has built up quite the fashion resume of her own over the past decade or so, walking the red carpet in poufy Dior gowns and embellished Gucci creations, or simply strolling down the street in a casual pair of jeans. She and her stylist Kate Young rarely (if ever!) get it wrong. More often, they land on an outfit combination we find ourselves scrambling to copy asap.
Still, like most fashion-lovers, Johnson has very specific taste and she's a creature of habit. She's been stepping out in the same style of sneakers for years, enjoys layering with a blazer, and clearly has a thing for the color brown. Her best outfits and go-to pieces are subtly teaching us important fashion lessons, so we're round up what we've learned from the star, ahead.
Show Some Leg
It doesn't matter if your dress is solid or includes a bit of sparkle. As Johnson proves, a subtly sexy way to steal the spotlight is by letting your leg peek through a thigh-high slit.
Put Lingerie On Display
The actress has no problem walking the red carpet in a revealing top — so long as the rest of her look provides balance. Sheer corsets are styled with leather pants of the same color to create a sleek, streamlined look, while a triangle top adds a relaxed twist to a structured suit.
Accessorize with Drop Earrings
Johnson has a type when it comes to earrings and often shows up to events in a long, silver drop pairs. They add so much glamour and drama to her looks that there's no need for a necklace, which could be distracting and take away from this timeless statement accessory.
Find a Signature Color
In recent history, Johnson has been gravitating toward all shades of brown. The neutral color is one that helps to pull a look together or even creates a base for adding personal touches, such as '70s style glasses or a pair of heeled loafers.
Draw Attention to Those Shoulders
Johnson's effortlessly shaggy 'do is also on the list of things we love about her, so it makes sense that so much of what she wears draws our attention upwards. We've notices she's got a thing for shoulder details — poufs, embellishments, off-the-shoulder styles — which helps to highlight her makeup and hair.
Invest in a Solid Pair of Sunglasses
It's possible that even decades down the road, we'll look back at Johnson's outfits and they'll still feel fresh and wearable. That's because she prefers to stick with timeless designs, such as Wayfarer shaped sunglasses, rather than of-the-moment styles. It's unclear how many pairs she owns, but she slips them on with nearly all of her outfits — and they work every time.
Add a Blazer
If you're hoping to turn a casual top and jeans into an outfit that feels elevated and put-together, adding a structured jacket is the easiest Johnson-approved trick.
Trade a Dress for a Jumpsuit
We often reach for dresses when getting dressed for big events, but tailored jumpsuits can be just as fancy and fun. As this star has taught us in the past, it's best to look for options with interesting details, such as lace or tiny prints.
Keep Classic Combos in Your Rotation
If you're struggling to find an outfit, don't forget about no-fail, timeless combinations such as a button-down and jeans. It's simple and casual, yet glamorous at the same time, not to mention it's an outfit that looks great on everyone.
Find a Versatile Pair of Sneakers
Johnson often completes her casual looks with Adidas Sambas, but Converse and $50 slip-on Vans are just as versatile (she's been spotted in those, too).
Make a Statement in All Black
Clearly Johnson knows that black dresses come in a variety of exciting forms, like ball gowns, minis, structured styles, and fit-and-flares. It's possible to find one to suit every mood and dress code, and give them a personal twist with accessories of your choice.
Reach for Shiny Sequins
With a look this sparkly and attention-grabbing, you won't want to over-accessorize. Johnson typically wears sequin pieces with strappy sandals and minimal jewelry.
Add an Oversized Sweater
Not only is this top comfy and cozy, another major bonus is that a solid sweater has the ability to complement just about any bottom, whether you're into jeans, trousers, skirts, or are even aiming for a monochromatic outfit.
Switch Up Your Suit
The more traditional choice is to pair your structured set with a white button-down, but Johnson has been known to give things some flair with a bow-tie, ruffled tops, and satin tanks underneath as well.